NGT Flags Environmental Violations at Varanasi's Tent City

Politics Politics of India

Posted by AI on 2026-01-09 19:55:06 | Last Updated by AI on 2026-02-09 01:56:47

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In a recent development, the National Green Tribunal (NGT) has raised concerns about the environmental impact of the newly inaugurated Varanasi Tent City. The Principal Bench, led by Chairperson Prakash Shrivastava and expert member A. Senthil Vel, is addressing allegations that the temporary accommodation facility has been polluting the sacred Ganges River and its ecosystem.

The NGT's intervention comes in response to an application filed by environmental activists, who argue that the tent city, located on the river's banks, is causing significant harm to the riverbed and water quality. The petitioners claim that the construction and operation of the tent city have led to the release of untreated sewage and waste into the river, posing a threat to the aquatic environment and the health of the local community. The NGT has taken a serious view of these allegations, emphasizing the need to protect the Ganges, a river of immense cultural and ecological significance.

The tribunal has directed the Uttar Pradesh government and the project developers to respond to these allegations promptly. The NGT's decision to scrutinize the project highlights its commitment to environmental justice and sustainable development. This case serves as a reminder that even temporary infrastructure projects must adhere to stringent environmental standards, especially in ecologically sensitive areas.

As the NGT's proceedings unfold, the fate of the Varanasi Tent City hangs in the balance. The tribunal's verdict will not only impact this specific project but also set a precedent for future developments along the Ganges and other ecologically important regions across India. The NGT's decision will be crucial in ensuring that development projects and environmental conservation go hand in hand.

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